Indeed, the body does not consist of one member, but of many. If the foot would say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear would say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. I Cor12:14-16, NRSV

Paul isn’t speaking to the ones who value their gifts over the gifts of others here; he’s talking to the ones who think so little of their own gifts that they don’t feel they are part of the group, much less necessary members.

On my more judgmental days, it seems that the faith community is made up almost entirely of those who devalue others and those who devalue themselves. The whole community suffers because the many wonderful, holy gifts of the Spirit are hidden away for fear they aren’t acceptable. On my more clear-sighted days, it’s a different story. All it really takes is a nudge, a prayer, and a sense of humor to get someone to offer their gifts. Once that happens, others jump in.

It’s a lot like a party with a buffet: no one wants to be the first, but everyone gets in line as soon as someone is brave enough to grab a plate.